Washington Band presents Christmas show Dec. 15

The historic Washington Band of Annville will present a free Christmas Concert at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15, in the Annville-Cleona High School auditorium.

Held annually since 1996, the band will once again present traditional Christmas music, including pieces sung by the band's vocalist, Wendy Sando.

Under the direction of Michael Yeagley, the concert will include Robert Longfield's arrangement, "The Bells of Christmas," featuring the poem "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," and incorporating Civil War re-enactor Greg Keller. "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" was written during the Civil War in 1863 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, after receiving news that his son, a Union lieutenant, was wounded in battle.

The band will also present the "Hallelujah Chorus" from George Frederick Handel's oratorio "Messiah." Audience members are encouraged to bring copies of the piece and sing along with the band.

The Washington Band of Annville formed on Aug. 9, 1856, when nine men from Annville met at the Washington House in Annville to play music together. Originally called the Washington Silver Cornet Band, the band eventually included other instruments and has grown to a current roster of 56 different musicians, 42 of whom are planning to perform at the Christmas Concert.

More information about the Washington Band and its Christmas Concert can be found at www.washingtonband.com. Individuals who wish to join the group or request a performance may contact the band at band@washingtonband.com or 717-269-3237.

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